Semi crash shuts all Tri-State lanes near IL-173

WGN's Skycam 9 over an overturned semi that caught fire on the Tri-State Tollway - causing major backup. (WGN-TV)

WGN's Skycam 9 over an overturned semi that caught fire on the Tri-State Tollway - causing major backup. (WGN-TV)

Staff report

An overturned semi trailer that caught fire caused major delays on the Tri-State Tollway near Wadsworth, but traffic was clearing by about 8 a.m. authorities said.

The trailer broke free from the truck cab and sailed over the center median after the semi driver crashed into the center median near Illinois Highway 173 around 6 a.m., according to police. All lanes were open by about 8 a.m., according to Illinois State Police.

The driver was taken to Condell Medical Center in Libertyville for observation as a precaution, according to police.

The truck driver had been traveling north and crashed as he attempted to avoid another vehicle, police said. The trailer landed in the southbound lanes.

The crash temporarily shut traffic in both directions, but traffic cameras indicated all lanes were open by about 8 a.m., police said.